Perfect Day, a global leader in animal-free dairy proteins, has reaffirmed that its precision fermentation facility in Gujarat is progressing on schedule, with operations set to begin in the second half of 2026 and a controlled scale-up throughout 2027.
The facility, located in Bharuch, Gujarat, is being developed in collaboration with Zydus Lifesciences and will produce recombinant beta-lactoglobulin (whey protein) using precision fermentation technology. This breakthrough process uses microbes rather than animals to produce authentic dairy proteins.
This move places India at the heart of a global shift toward sustainable, scalable, and high-functionality dairy ingredients.
A Strategic Step Toward Self-Reliance in Whey Protein
India currently imports over 90% of its whey protein, primarily from the United States, Europe, and New Zealand. According to government trade data, India imported more than 45,000 tonnes of whey protein concentrate and isolates in FY 2022–23, valued at over ₹1,200 crore (~$145 million). These imports cater primarily to the growing domestic markets for sports nutrition, infant formula, medical nutrition, and functional beverages.
This heavy import dependence has exposed India to price volatility, foreign exchange pressures, and logistics disruptions, particularly during the pandemic and recent global supply chain crises.
The Perfect Day–Zydus facility stands to change this equation—potentially positioning India as a self-sufficient producer and even an exporter of high-grade whey protein in the coming decade. By harnessing precision fermentation, the facility will eliminate the need for dairy animals while delivering proteins that are nutritionally identical to conventional whey.
Facility Designed for Commercial Scale and Profitability
According to Marshall Bredwell, Chief Operating Officer at Perfect Day, the Gujarat plant is not a pilot or research site—it is a fully commercial facility designed for long-term profitability and operational resilience.
He confirmed that demand for animal-free whey already exceeds current supply, with multiple anchor customers lined up globally. He also noted that while sustainability remains essential, it is product functionality, reliability, and supply stability that are driving B2B demand for precision-fermented proteins.
“This facility is about commercialisation at scale. We’re solving real problems in the dairy supply chain, not just for the planet, but for manufacturers who need better, more predictable proteins,” Bredwell told AgFunderNews.
The Gujarat plant will produce beta-lactoglobulin (BLG), a major whey protein component known for its solubility, neutral flavour profile, and high bioavailability—making it ideal for use in performance nutrition, lactose-free dairy, meal replacements, and dairy-based ready-to-drink (RTD) beverages.
Note: Original Article Perfect Day says India facility on track for 2026 start, 2027 ramp-up
